In Mormonism, perfection is often described as the ultimate goal of life and eternity. Members are taught that God’s command “Be ye therefore perfect” (Matthew 5:48) is a call to become like Heavenly Father in every way. Leaders sometimes explain it with the phrase “Be ye therefore perfect eventually” — stressing that perfection comes step by step through obedience, ordinances, and covenants, and will ultimately be reached in eternity.
Because of this, Mormons often feel intense pressure to avoid sin and live up to high standards. Perfection is tied to worthiness for temple worship and, in eternity, to the possibility of becoming like God. The pursuit of perfection is frequently emphasized in sermons, youth programs, and church materials.
Biblical Christianity understands God’s command for perfection differently. The law’s demand reveals a standard no human can ever reach. It drives us to see our desperate need for Christ, who lived the perfect life we could not and gives us his righteousness as a gift (2 Corinthians 5:21). For Christians, perfection is not something we achieve but something we receive in Jesus.
